“We’re all about growth at the moment,” said USTA Foundation president Thomas S. Chen at last night’s Opening Night Gala. Given the recent opening of the Louis Armstrong Stadium—Andy Murray defeated James Duckworth on the new court yesterday—the organization is already well on its way. “At tonight’s gala we raised $1.6 million; that’s up from $1.1 million last year. What we’re doing is making ourselves more aware to the community and growing by our own success.” Through their Excellence Teams program, the USTA Foundation partners with stars like Frances Tiafoe and Sloane Stephens to engage the next generation of tennis players.

“We would like to see the generous contributions continue to build the infrastructure across the country,” added Dan Faber, USTA Foundation executive director. “They’re learning from some of the best pros in the world and the goal is to take that to college.” The foundation gala, which was hosted in the President’s Suite on-site at Arthur Ashe Stadium, was one way to help secure funding and garner more attention for the good works. “We’ve set a goal to raise $20 million a year by 2020,” said Y. David Scharf, USTA Foundation board member and co-chair of development. The foundation has also reached out to the community through their CharityBuzz auction, which includes everything from a meeting with FUBU founder and Shark Tank star Daymond John, lunch with Vera Wang, and a tour of the Vogue offices.

A glittering cross section of tennis fans took in the elegant soirée, including Anna Wintour, Vera Wang, and Wendi Murdoch joined by Hugh Jackman and Deborra-lee Furness. After USTA CEO Katrina Adams welcomed the crowd followed by tennis legend Billie Jean King, it was time for everyone from Ambassador Nikki Haley to Mike Tyson to get on their feet for the performances from Kelly Clarkson and Maxwell.

But the real action started once Serena Williams—clad in Virgil Abloh’s designs for Nike—took to the court, followed by Rafael Nadal. “I love all athletics, but tennis and figure skating are my two faves, not necessarily in that order,” said Wang with a laugh, adding, “[Tennis] is one of the most positive sports.”